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4.9 from 786 votes

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

This Instant Pot Mac and cheese is full of creamy goodness and makes an easy one-pot meal.

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Additional Time
10 mins
Total Time
26 mins
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 327 kcal
Course: Side Dish , Main Course , Lunch , Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 2½ cups elbow macaroni about 10 oz
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon seasoned salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 ounces cream cheese approx. ⅓ cup
  • ¾ cup milk divided
  • 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese about 10 oz
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese shredded

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. In a 6qt Instant Pot, add uncooked elbow noodles, water, butter, dry mustard, onion powder, seasoned salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the lid and turn to seal. Select MANUAL - HIGH PRESSURE for 6 minutes.
  3. Once completed, turn or press the valve to release any pressure (quick release). There will be cooking liquid in the Instant Pot - do not drain it.
  4. Stir in the cream cheese until melted. Add ¼ cup milk slowly until blended.
  5. Add the cheddar and parmesan cheeses and stir until melted, adding additional milk if needed to reach the desired consistency. You may not need all of the milk.
  6. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • This recipe can be made with other types of cheese, ensure you use a bold or sharp cheese for the best flavor.
  • Shred the cheese yourself for the best results, pre-shredded cheeses have additives and they don't always melt well.
  • Other shapes of pasta can be used, but depending on the shape, cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.
  • You may not use all of the milk; add just a little bit at a time.
  • 6 minutes on high should be just right for most brands of pasta, if you use another small shape and find it isn't cooked through, put the lid back on and let it rest for a few minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories 327 (16%) Carbohydrates 26g (9%) Protein 14g (28%) Fat 17g (26%) Saturated Fat 10g (50%) Cholesterol 54mg (18%) Sodium 375mg (16%) Potassium 155mg (4%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 2g (4%) Vitamin A 595IU (12%) Calcium 317mg (32%) Iron 0.7mg (4%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 327

% Daily Value*

Calories 327 16%
Carbohydrates 26g 9%
Protein 14g 28%
Fat 17g 26%
Saturated Fat 10g 50%
Cholesterol 54mg 18%
Sodium 375mg 16%
Potassium 155mg 3%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 2g 4%
Vitamin A 595IU 12%
Calcium 317mg 32%
Iron 0.7mg 4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.